Silverwood played six Tests for England between 1996 and 2002

Middlesex have completed the signing of former England paceman Chris Silverwood after Yorkshire agreed to release him.

Silverwood, 30, who has signed a two-year deal, has already been integrated into the Middlesex squad after going on their pre-season trip to India.

"He gives our bowling squad the aggression we have lacked in recent years," said John Emburey, who has been promoted to Director of Cricket.

"His experience will be of huge benefit to the younger players."

Silverwood was a member of Yorkshire's Championship winning team in 2001 but has struggled with injuries in recent years and only made six Championship appearances for the club last summer.

A Yorkshire statement confirmed they had agreed to release him "by mutual consent".

Middlesex are hoping he can rediscover the form which earned him six Test caps between 1996 and 2002, the last against Australia in Perth on the last Ashes tour.

"He is still ambitious and believes that a good season with Middlesex could lead to him getting back into the England side.

"He still has several good years in him, but he is looking forward to the challenges ahead," Emburey commented.

Speaking about his own elevation from the role of head coach, Emburey said he was looking forward to helping bring on a number of "exciting" young players from the club's Academy.

"The county is in good shape for its long-term future," he added.

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